2026-06-15

Teaching my regular classes at the Ross Farnsworth - East Valley YMCA.

Another successful kyu exam is in the books, and congratulations to our new 6th, 7th, 8th, and 9th kyu recipients! As usual, everyone was given written feedback explaining what they did well and where I hope to see improvements before their next test.

Our next kyu exam is scheduled for Wednesday, September 9, but we have a black belt grading coming up this Saturday as part of the ASK Summer 2026 clinic. There’s still time to register if you want to attend.

With the time we had left after the announcement of exam results, we paired up and worked on the various grab escapes we learn from the Heian and Tekki katas. Everyone’s wrists came away with a bit of wear and tear, but I think everyone’s understanding was improved along the way. The most common errors, as always, were the tendency to use speed and strength as a substitute for technique as opposed to letting good body mechanics do the work for you.